Member for Eastern Victoria Region Melina Bath today attended the opening of the Harold Preston Reserve Pavilion which was funded with the assistance of $50,000 from the former Coalition Government.

Ms Bath congratulated Traralgon Olympians Soccer Club and Latrobe City Council for contributing funding towards the construction of the new pavilion which provides change facilities for female and junior players.

“The Nationals are passionate about building healthy and active communities and the grant provided through the former Coalition government’s Community Facility Funding Program will be helpful in ensuring more juniors are attracted to this sport,” Ms Bath said.

“I’m sure that having a separate female and junior change room will encourage more families to Traralgon Olympians Soccer Club and I’m delighted to see the new facilities today.”

Member for Morwell Russell Northe said he was pleased to be part of a Government that ensured regional sporting groups such as Traralgon Olympians were encouraged to grow.

“When I announced the funding for this project I knew it would go a long way to securing a vibrant future for this great club here in Traralgon and it’s fantastic to see the upgrades that have taken place at Harold Preston Reserve,” Mr Northe said.

“The Coalition understands that we need quality local sporting infrastructure that encourages locals to play the sport they love now and into the future.”

The pavilion includes two change facilities with toilets and showers, two referee change facilities, an all abilities toilet including baby change facilities, first aid room and store room.

“I’m sure the Coalition’s investment will make a real difference to local people by catering for future growth and I congratulate all those involved in ensuring this project came to fruition,” Mr Northe said.